By: Winston X. Hutson
Wheeler Nation! With game #10 on the horizon versus the Frisco Fighters, here's what you need to know for this week's matchup.
This battle will take place at home at the Vibrant Arena at the MARK, kickoff will be at 6:05 pm on June 8th.
Bring out the neon and swishy pants for the occasion too because this game's theme is 80's/90's night! This game will be sponsored by MetroLINK.
Also stick around after the game for a special performance by Celebrated Minneapolis All-Star Band, Marshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE, is the world's premier tribute to PRINCE. As seen touring globally for over a decade, starring in a Las Vegas residency, headlining Red Rocks Amphitheater, fronting the world's finest symphonies, and featured on albums with Prince, Marshall has dominated the world stage as the most authentic Prince tribute artist.
This game will also be broadcasted on Caffine TV as well as the official IFL YouTube channel.
About the Steamwheelers
The sQUAD is coming off a tough loss against the Green Bay Blizzard. It was an uphill battle the entire game for the Steamwheelers, with Green Bay constantly extending their large lead the more the Wheelers fought to shorten the deficit. The 64-36 loss dropped the sQUAD to 4-5 on the year and they're looking to make it 5-5 on June 8th.Â
About the Fighters
Frisco has won back-to-back games over the San Diego Strike Force and most recently the Massachusetts Pirates. In their last outing vs the Pirates, the Fighters pulled off a 52-48 win after Mass made their best attempt at a late-game comeback.Â
Last Time Out
The last time these two bulls locked horns was when the Wheelers took a trip to Frisco that didn't go their way. Back in Week 5 the Fighters took down the Steamwheelers 54-37 after putting up a good fight that simply wasn't enough to notch the win.Â
Players to Look Out For
OffenseÂ
Martez Carter - RB // FF - Carter, also known as "Meatball" Carter, has been a frequent contributor to the Frisco offense. He has picked up a rushing touchdown in all but two games this season, totaling nine rushing touchdowns along with 325 rushing yards in the process.
Joe Krall - OL // QCS - "Stone Cold" Joe Krall has been a fan favorite since his arrival in 2022. The 305-pound offensive lineman does all the dirty work to protect his QB, whether it's Mike Irwin or Judd Erickson. Krall has been the big man in the middle who provides top flight security services for his quarterback. With the addition of true center DJ Stuckey, Krall will be taking snaps at right guard for the foreseeable future. Look for number 65 to continue his reputation against the Fighters.
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DefenseÂ
Royce See - LB // FF - The Fighters linebacker has been See-ing offenses well this season. In his latest performance versus the Mass Pirates he displayed his ability to see and attack on defense. He picked up 6 solo tackles and 4 assisted tackles on the evening.
Trey Smith - DB // QCS - Smith has been putting in work and showing why he's one of the most solid defensive players on the Steamwheelers roster. So far this season he has picked up 19 total tackles, alongside 3 interceptions and two pass breakups. Keep an eye out for Smith to make his presence known on defense.
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